“Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has become an institution to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said
He said this while inaugurating the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Bhubaneswar in Odisha on January 9. He also highlighted the significant history of the Indian diaspora worldwide, emphasizing their achievements in various countries as an important part of India's heritage.
 
Indeed, over 25 million individuals of Indian descent currently reside outside their birthplace or ancestral homeland, have become proud ambassadors of their heritage. Many overseas Indians have ascended to prominent leadership positions in their adopted countries, including roles as presidents, prime ministers, and CEOs of major multinational technology corporations, and they take pride in their connection to their ancestral homeland.
 
For over two-and-a-half decades, the Indian government has organized this congregation, welcoming participants from more than 100 countries. This initiative not only serves to remind them of their rich heritage but also provides a platform for them to contribute to the revitalization of their motherland's ancient glory.
 
Diaspora and India’s ambition  
 
Today, individuals of Indian origin express a deep emotional connection to India and seek to support its development in ways that align with the interests of the Indian government. Their contributions can be seen in various forms, whether through economic initiatives or diplomatic efforts.
 
It is essential for Indian leadership to harness the potential of these individuals, leveraging their expertise and capabilities. Indian government representatives have been actively engaging with the diaspora to encourage their involvement in India's journey toward achieving developed nation status by 2047, the centenary of India's independence.
 
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, held in Bhubaneshwar from January 8 to 10, provided a significant opportunity for interaction and engagement with the Indian diaspora. This year's theme, “Diaspora's Contribution to Viksit Bharat,” aligned with India's aspirations to evolve into a developed nation.
 
Diaspora as asset
 
The Indian diaspora has increasingly emerged as a significant force in shaping the policies of host nations regarding India. This growing influence has led to the recognition of the Indian diaspora as a vital asset in the realms of foreign policy and diplomatic relations.
 
As members of the diaspora establish themselves as prominent entrepreneurs in their adopted countries, they present a promising avenue for wealth transfer to India, leveraging their financial resources and technical expertise to foster economic ties between nations.
 
Today, the Indian diaspora is dispersed across the globe, from Latin America to Europe, Africa, West Asia, and Southeast Asia, where they have established a vibrant presence that showcases the richness of Indian culture.
 
This cultural influence has helped to create a favourable perception of India among the local populations of these host countries. In various regions, including the Arab nations, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and the United States, the Indian diaspora has carved out a unique niche, contributing significantly to India's soft power.
 
Diaspora plays meaningful role
 
Members of Indian origin’s involvement in the political and economic spheres of their adopted countries is noteworthy, as they not only engage in local politics but also advocate for India's interests among lawmakers. A prime example of this is the active role played by the Indian diaspora in the United States, particularly in lobbying for the civil nuclear agreement between India and the US, which elevated India's status on the global stage.
 
The increasing representation of individuals of Indian origin in the US administration further underscores their importance, as seen in the case of the incoming Trump administration, which has entrusted key roles to members of the diaspora. Additionally, the diaspora plays a crucial role in overseas remittances, significantly bolstering India's economy, while also serving as a vital market for Indian exports, thereby enhancing trade and investment opportunities.
 
India's Ministry of External Affairs has been instrumental in harnessing the potential of the Indian diaspora, who now occupy a pivotal role in enhancing India's global engagement. The diaspora serves as a vital conduit for fortifying India's international relationships, thereby augmenting the nation's influence in global power dynamics.
 
Conclusion
 
As India ascends to become the fifth-largest economy and a significant player in international politics, the reputation of the Indian diaspora has also been elevated, earning them considerable respect in their host countries due to their Indian heritage. This growing recognition has led the diaspora to increasingly align their interests with those of India, actively contributing to the realization of the Indian government's foreign policy objectives.
 
With India's emergence as a dominant force in the 21st century, the diaspora's involvement in global affairs has become more pronounced. It is imperative for the government to develop targeted initiatives and programs that encourage greater engagement from the diaspora, inviting their participation in shaping the future trajectory of India.
 
*** The writer is a senior journalist and strategic affairs analyst; views expressed here are his own